Microsoft Office for my MacBook

For macOS Big Sur 11.7.11, an older Office version may be needed. If there is already a valid Office 2019, Office 2021, or Microsoft 365 license, the supported path in the provided guidance is to download and install Office for Mac, then activate it from an Office app.

Steps:

1. Download the installer package for the Office version that matches the license:
   • Office 2021 for Mac Installer
   • Office 2019 for Mac Installer
   • Office 2016 for Mac Installer
2. After the download finishes, open Finder > Downloads and double-click the installer package.
3. Select Continue, review the license agreement, select Agree, then choose Install.
4. Enter the Mac login password if prompted.
5. When installation finishes, open Launchpad and start Microsoft Word.
6. In the What’s New window, select Get Started to begin activation.

If the installer download stops at the same size every time:

1. Confirm internet access by opening a browser and loading Microsoft.com.
2. Move the installer file to Trash.
3. Use Safari and download the installer again.

If Office was already activated but still asks to activate:

1. Quit the Office app.
2. Restart the app.
3. If the prompt continues, open Spotlight > Keychain, search for Office, delete the data license file, and then run the license removal tool.

Important: Office 2016 and Office 2019 support ended on October 14, 2025. The apps may still work, but there are security risks.

References:

• Microsoft Office activation and the Mac App Store
• Download and install or reinstall Office 2021, Office 2019, or Office 2016
• Download, install, or reinstall Microsoft 365 or Office 2024 on a PC or Mac
• What to try if you can't install or activate Office for Mac